A reconciliation meeting called by the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, aimed at resolving grievances among aspirants in the Ondo State governorship election, ended in a deadlock.
Three aggrieved aspirants, including Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Olusola Oke (SAN), and Adewale Akinterinwa, reportedly refused to take a group photograph with Governor Lucky Aiyetadiwa, signaling serious disagreement.
The APC youths from Ondo State also protested against the primary election and demanded a fresh election, adding to the tension.
While the APC claimed the meeting focused on promoting inclusive governance in the state, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim stated that no concrete agreement was reached. He clarified that the decision to reject the group photograph with Aiyetadiwa didn’t signify a staged walkout but rather dissatisfaction with the proceedings.
Durosinmi Meseko, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, highlighted the party’s commitment to dialogue and inclusive governance following the meeting. He emphasized the need for unity among aspirants and their involvement in Aiyetadiwa’s government.
Ade Adetimehin, the APC Chairman in Ondo State, reiterated the party’s stance on dialogue and inclusivity, urging all aspirants to work together for the party’s success in the November election.
Despite Ganduje’s appeal for unity and cooperation among the aspirants, tensions remain high, with unresolved grievances and demands for transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
The deadlock underscores the challenges faced by the APC in managing internal conflicts ahead of the Ondo State governorship election.